Raspberry and Feta Salad with Couscous is one of those delightful recipes that surprises you with each bite. The contrasting flavours and textures create an explosion of tastes that will have you going back for seconds (and thirds).
About the Recipe
Salads don’t have to be boring. This unique combination combines some of summer’s best produce like juicy raspberries, creamy feta, and fresh herbs. The nutty couscous adds heartiness, while the tangy dressing brightens every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll adore how easily this salad comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients. Yet the blend of flavors is downright gourmet. The sweet-tart raspberries complement the salty feta so well. Toasted pine nuts provide a lovely crunch. And that dressing? Chef’s kiss.
Raspberry and Feta Salad with Couscous
Cooking Tips
Go for pearled couscous – it has a bit more texture than regular. Toast the pine nuts to enhance their nutty aroma. Use top-quality feta from a local creamery if possible. And surely seek out the freshest raspberries you can find.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
This salad serves 4-6 as a tasty side dish. Or boost it with grilled chicken or salmon for a satisfying main course. Total prep time is only 20 minutes. Leftovers keep well chilled for 2-3 days, but are best consumed the same day.
Similar Recipes
- Strawberry Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans
- Mediterranean Couscous Salad
- Arugula and Pear Salad with Goat Cheese
- Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Feta
Nutrient Benefits
Along with being surely delicious, this salad provides plenty of nutrients. Raspberries are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Feta offers a dose of protein and calcium. The couscous is a good source of complex carbs for lasting energy.
Raspberry and Feta Salad with Couscous
Ingredients
- 350 gms Couscous
- 600 ml Chicken Stock or Vegetable Stock (boiling)
- 350 gms Fresh Raspberries
- Fresh Basil (small bunch)
- 225 gms Feta Cheese (cubed)
- 2 Courgettes (thinly sliced)
- 4 Spring Onions (trimmed or diagonally sliced)
- 55 gms Pine Kernels (toasted)
- Rind of 1 Lemon (grated)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tbsp White Wine Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 4 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Juice of 1 Lemon
- Salt and Pepper
Instructions
- Put the couscous in a large, heatproof bowl and pour over the stock.
- Stir well.
- Cover and leave to soak until all the stock has been absorbed.
- Pick over the raspberries, discarding any that are overripe.
- Shred the basil leaves.
- Transfer the couscous to a large serving bowl and stir well to break up any lumps.
- Add the cheese, courgettes, spring onions, raspberries and pine kernels.
- Stir in the basil and lemon rind and gently toss all the ingredients together.
- Put all the dressing ingredients in a screw-top jar with salt and pepper.
- Screw on the lid and shake until well blended.
- Pour over the salad and serve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
For the ultimate flavor and texture, I really recommend using fresh raspberries. However, if you’re in a pinch, frozen raspberries (thawed and drained of excess juice) can work. Just keep in mind that their texture won’t be quite as plump and juicy as fresh.
What’s the best way to cube the feta?
Chilled feta is easier to cube neatly. Use a sharp knife and cut into rough 1/2-inch cubes or crumbles. You want nice bite-sized pieces throughout the salad.
How far in advance can I make this?
The salad is best assembled right before serving so everything stays fresh and vibrant. But you can surely prep the components ahead of time – make the dressing, cook the couscous, slice the veggies, etc. Then just toss it all together when ready to eat.
Can I add grilled chicken for extra protein?
Surely. Grilled or roasted chicken would make a fantastic addition to beef up this salad into an even heartier meal. Shredded rotisserie chicken is an easy shortcut too.
What other fruits could I use besides raspberries?
Raspberries pair beautifully with the feta, but you could without a doubt experiment with other fresh fruits too. Blueberries, strawberries or mango would all be delicious options to try.
